Geir Hallgrimsson

Geir Hallgrimsson

Icelandic politician, Prime Minister of Iceland from 28 August 1974 to 1 September 1978
Date of Birth: 16.12.1925
Country: Iceland

Content:
  1. Geir Hallgrímsson: Icelandic Statesman
  2. Political Career
  3. Leadership of the Independence Party
  4. Prime Minister of Iceland
  5. "Cod Wars" with the UK
  6. Later Years
  7. Minister of Foreign Affairs
  8. Central Bank Governor

Geir Hallgrímsson: Icelandic Statesman

Early Life and Education

Geir Hallgrímsson was born in Iceland and obtained a law degree. He established a successful legal practice and became an attorney at the Supreme Court.

Political Career

Mayor of Reykjavík

Hallgrímsson's political journey commenced in 1954, when he was elected to the Reykjavík City Council. From 1959 to 1972, he served as mayor, implementing significant improvements such as asphalt roads and geothermal heating. His popularity culminated in an overwhelming 99% vote in the 1970 mayoral election.

Leadership of the Independence Party

In 1965, Hallgrímsson joined the Independence Party's Executive Committee, becoming Vice-Chairman in 1971 and Chairman in 1973. Under his leadership, the party achieved notable electoral gains.

Prime Minister of Iceland

Coalition Government

In the 1974 parliamentary elections, the Independence Party emerged victorious, securing a coalition government with the Progressive Party. Hallgrímsson became Prime Minister, serving from 1974 to 1978.

"Cod Wars" with the UK

Hallgrímsson's premiership was marked by the "Cod Wars" with Great Britain over territorial fishing rights. The dispute led to the severing of diplomatic relations in 1976.

Later Years

Parliamentary Opposition

The Independence Party's representation in parliament declined in the 1978 elections, leading to the formation of a government without their participation. Hallgrímsson became the leader of the parliamentary opposition.

Minister of Foreign Affairs

In 1983, Hallgrímsson briefly served as Minister of Foreign Affairs in a coalition government. He subsequently resigned from the party and lost his parliamentary seat.

Central Bank Governor

After leaving politics, Hallgrímsson became one of three Governors of the Central Bank of Iceland, a position he held until his death. Hallgrímsson's legacy as an influential Icelandic politician and statesman continues to be remembered.

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